Schumer Backs GOP Funding Bill to Avert Government Shutdown

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer announced his decision to support the Republican-led funding bill to prevent a government shutdown, despite reservations within his party. Schumer emphasized that a shutdown would grant President Donald Trump and his ally, Elon Musk, excessive power to implement their agenda, which he views as a greater threat than the partisan provisions in the bill. This move has sparked significant backlash from liberal activists and some Democratic members, who have labeled it the "Schumer surrender." The GOP funding bill proposes a seven-month stopgap measure that increases defense spending by $6 billion and cuts non-defense funding by $13 billion.

Sources: Politico,

Putin's Conditions Stall Prospects for Ukraine Cease-Fire

President Putin has expressed conditional support for a U.S.-proposed 30-day cease-fire in Ukraine but outlined several stipulations that could delay or derail the truce. Putin emphasized the need to address the "root causes" of the conflict, including Ukraine's NATO aspirations and territorial disputes, before agreeing to a cease-fire. He also insisted that Ukraine should not use the truce period to rearm or receive Western military aid. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Putin's response as manipulative and obstructive, accusing him of stalling the peace process. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed cautious optimism, stating he hopes Russia will "do the right thing" but acknowledged that Putin's response was incomplete.

Sources: The New York Times

Legal Battle Over Deportation of Columbia University Student Mahmoud Khalil Sparks Protests

The Trump administration’s attempt to deport Mahmoud Khalil, a U.S. permanent resident and Columbia University student, has led to protests and legal challenges. Khalil was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on March 8, 2025, due to his involvement in pro-Palestinian demonstrations on campus. The administration has cited national security concerns as the reason for his removal, though no specific evidence has been publicly presented. Supporters, including civil rights organizations, argue that his detention raises concerns about free speech. A protest at Trump Tower in New York City resulted in 98 arrests. A federal judge has temporarily blocked Khalil’s deportation while legal proceedings continue.

Sources: Aljazeera, Reuters

Google Pushes for Lenient AI Regulations in Response to U.S. AI Action Plan

Google has proposed a policy framework for AI regulation in response to the U.S. government's request for an AI Action Plan. The company advocates for weak copyright restrictions on AI training, arguing that fair use and text-and-data mining exceptions are essential for innovation. Google also criticizes strict export controls on AI technology, claiming they hinder U.S. economic competitiveness. The proposal calls for increased federal funding for AI research and the release of government datasets to support AI development. Additionally, Google urges lawmakers to enact federal AI legislation to replace the inconsistent patchwork of state laws. The company opposes broad liability rules for AI developers and warns against transparency regulations that could expose trade secrets or compromise national security. Google’s stance on these issues has drawn scrutiny, especially given its ongoing legal battles over the use of copyrighted material in AI training.

Sources: Tech Crunch

Google Gets the Upper Hand on Apple, Unveils Gemini with Personalization

Google has launched Gemini with Personalization, an experimental AI assistant feature that tailors responses based on users' Search history. This opt-in experience allows Gemini to analyze past searches for context, with plans to integrate Google Photos and YouTube in the future. The feature is powered by the Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking model and is currently available to Gemini and Gemini Advanced subscribers on the web, with a gradual rollout planned for mobile. Google emphasizes user control, allowing them to disconnect the feature at any time and edit their Search history. The move positions Google ahead of Apple in the race for personalized AI, as Apple's Apple Intelligence remains limited in scope and delayed in delivering a true AI-powered assistant. Alongside this update, Google also announced enhancements to Gemini, including expanded access to Deep Research and Gems.

Sources: ZDNET